Tru-Break™ solid dielectric switchgear improves worker safety

Tru-Break™ solid dielectric switchgear improves worker safety

New module from Elastimold® is submersible with a view port so users can verify that circuits are truly open and isolated in solid dielectric switchgear

The new Tru-Break™ solid dielectric molded vacuum switchgear module from Elastimold®, the premier producer of weather-protected utility equipment from Thomas & Betts, a member of the ABB Group, offers a clear viewport so workers can safely verify that the hotstick-operable circuit contacts are open before they begin work — a significant improvement in safety for solid dielectric underground or pad-mounted systems. Tru-Break can be ordered fully assembled from the factory or, due to the inherent modularity of Elastimold switchgear, can be easily retrofitted into existing Elastimold equipment.

The system’s unique combination of proprietary EPDM rubber insulation and solid dielectric delivers a maintenance-free design that can be used in the harshest environments — excellent for storm-hardening upgrades or for new construction. Each unit is capable of independently withstanding full 125 kV basic insulation level (BIL) impulse voltage and up to 60kV power-frequency withstand without a vacuum interrupter in series, and the 1.75-inch glass-covered viewport is equipped with a hotstick-removable dust cap to keep it clear even in wet, murky environments.

Rated for 20 kA systems at 15 kV to 29.3 kV, the compact Tru-Break switchgear module is submersible and sized to retrofit easily into already-installed Elastimold three-phase MVS switches or MVI inter-rupters and multi-way switchgear solutions. It is tested and certified to the IEEE C37.74-2014 stand-ard.

“The safety, flexibility and reliability of the Elastimold Tru-Break switchgear module is a unique com-bination in the industry,” said Harold Hirz, ABB Global Applications Engineering Manager for Cable Accessories and Apparatus. “From its Elastimold field-proven solid dielectric dead-front core con-struction to its true visible break port, it provides a solid choice for new construction or for any utility that is in the process of enhancing and storm-hardening its systems.“

Tru-Break switchgear module will be unveiled April 16-19 at the IEEE PES Transmission and Distribu-tion Conference & Exposition in Denver, CO. Look for us in the ABB display space.

ABB (ABBN: SIX Swiss Ex) is a pioneering technology leader in electrification products, robotics and motion, industrial automation and power grids, serving customers in utilities, industry and transport & infrastructure globally. Continuing a history of innovation spanning more than 130 years, ABB today is writing the future of industrial digitalization with two clear value propositions: bringing electricity from any power plant to any plug and automating industries from natural resources to finished prod-ucts. As title partner of Formula E, the fully electric international FIA motorsport class, ABB is pushing the boundaries of e-mobility to contribute to a sustainable future. ABB operates in more than 100 countries with about 135,000 employees. www.abb.com